Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
